Wet Plate Collodion SPRING Workshop in Corona, CA- March 19-20, 2011

Students will learn the making of ambrotypes (glass direct positives) and tintypes. (Ferrotypes, tin plate direct positives) Students are guided through the process step-by-step from the mixing, pouring, exposing and development of plates poured with wet collodion. The newest edition of the manual, Making the Wet Collodion Plate in 16 Steps manual by Will Dunniway is included along with all materials in the course fee. Students will use a period 1860 field camera with 1860-70 lenses. Workshop features 2 days of intensive hands-on training in the making of ambrotypes, ferrotypes (tintypes), and glass plate negatives. Each student will make and take home a self-portrait/still life tintype/ambrotypes. * All materials and equipment provided.

The workshop is not about the historical use of the process. It is about the use of wet plate collodion in a contemporary setting. It just so happens that I am an historical tin-typist with 22 years in the field doing this wet plate process.

I use an original wet plate camera in the sun room so the the exposure is a known constant. This reduces the time that each student needs to learn making and exposing their plates. I do not require anything remotely historical. I will also help you adapt newer 'view' type cameras with wet plate backs. Given this, my equipment is all original by default. This is the only equipment I use. My students have really enjoyed working with this rare camera equipment . The look these old lens give is incredible. In the end you will go away with a working knowledge of the process, not it's historical interpretation.

Here are some details for you:

You need not bring anything except old clothes that you don't mind being stained and or an apron. You might want some latex gloves if your hands are sensitive and you don't want stained. The silver nitrate will turn whatever part of your skin it touches dark, dark brown for 5 days or so.

Instruction begins at 9 am on Saturday till around 5 pm. Sunday we begin at 9 am here again in Corona. The Sunday workshop/shoot will end around 3-4 pm on Sunday.

Please arrive Saturday as soon as you can. 8 am onward will be fine. There will be Peets coffee, fruit bagels etc. Ted Robert's, 28 year veteran with LA Times with assist.

Catered lunch is provided both days. Diet preferences?

*Collodion contains ether and the smell may cause nausea or aggravate existing respiratory ailments in some. Please be advised that if you fall into this category, you may not wish to attend.

Here are the details. The cost of the workshop is $450. A $100 deposit check (refundable in most cases) required to hold your place. After this deposit, you will owe $350. This is paid at the time of the workshop. The mailing address is: